To improve the disease resistance of Irish potatoes, Luther Burbank selected the potato that became known as the Burbank. It was not patented because plants such as potatoes propagated from tubers, were not granted patents in the United States.[3] The Idaho nickname is after the U.S. state, a leading growing region. In Canada, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Manitoba produce potatoes.

Varieties with high levels of starch are most suited to baking and mashing.[4] The UK generally uses the 'Maris Piper' variety.[5]

Restaurants such as McDonald's use russet Burbank potatoes for their size, which gives long and thin pieces, making them ideal for french fries (chips). Presently, McDonald's top supplier uses the russet Burbank.[citation needed] The russet Burbank is more expensive than other potatoes, as it consumes more water and takes longer to mature, while it also requires large amounts of pesticides. Controversy surfaced after research concluded that the potato is treated with amounts of pesticides which are allegedly environmentally toxic; the potatoes also have a short shelf life.[6][7]